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Should I Replace My Chimney Liner If I Replace My Furnace?

The chimney liner is a crucial component of your fireplace/chimney system. It contains the fire’s combustion byproducts and protects your home’s masonry materials and flammable structures. If you’ve upgraded your furnace, you may wonder if the current liner is sufficient or if you should replace it even if it’s in good condition. The short answer is yes, you should replace the liner, and here’s why.

Chimney Liner Installation in West Windsor NJA New System Requires a New Liner

Many homeowners don’t realize it, but different systems have different venting requirements for safety and efficiency. Relining a chimney to accommodate whatever new system you install is necessary to vent toxic gases like carbon monoxide. Often, the old liner is too small, and relining the chimney is the only way to keep your family safe and ensure your new system operates efficiently. Failing to upgrade your liner to accommodate your new appliance poses several risks, including:

  • Condensation buildup
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Poor drafting
  • Aesthetic and structural damage

How to Choose the Right Chimney Liner

Now that you know how important it is to install the right liner for your particular furnace or heating system, let’s look at how to know which size to get.

The first thing you need is the BTU output information of your new appliance. The BTU information is key to determining the size of the new liner. Generally, the higher the BTU output, the large liner you’ll need to accommodate the heat output. Conversely, if your new furnace has a lower heat output than the previous one, you opt for a smaller liner, which will channel the exhaust more efficiently.

The next thing to consider is the chimney’s height. The taller the chimney, the bigger the liner you’ll need for efficient venting.
Another factor to consider is the type of fuel your furnace uses. Experts recommend steel liners for gas furnaces and cast iron or clay for oil or coal heaters.

How to Know if I Have to Replace My Chimney Liner?

Sometimes, you could get by with your current chimney liner when upgrading your furnace or home heater. But how can you know for sure?

If the current liner is in good condition, is already the right size, and is compatible with your new setup, keeping your liner is fine. Also, if you’re upgrading your furnace to a similar model with the same heat output and fuel source, you probably won’t have to replace the liner.

Stainless Steel Chimney Liner Installation in Hightstown, NJ

Finally, the current building codes may require you to replace the liner when you upgrade your furnace, even if it’s not necessary from a functional or safety standpoint.

It’s best not to take chances and call a professional service company to inspect your chimney and furnace to determine if a liner upgrade is necessary and follow their recommendations.

Call the Experts at Mercer Mercer County Chimney Service

If you’re upgrading your furnace, water heater, or other appliance and are unsure whether you need a chimney liner replacement, call us at 609-802-5288 for an inspection by certified chimney professionals.

We’re a full-service chimney and fireplace company proudly serving Hamilton, NJ, and Mercer County residents. Whether you need chimney sweeping, rebuilding, fireplace installations, crown installation, or masonry repairs, we do it all.